Quote by C.S. Lewis
There, right in the midst of our lives, is that which satisfies the craving for inequality, and acts as a permanent reminder that medicine is not food. Hence a mans reaction to monarchy is a kind of test. Monarchy can easily be debunked;' but watch the faces, mark the accents of the debunkers. These are the men whose tap-root in Eden has been cut: whom no rumour of the polyphony, the dance, can reach - men to whom pebbles laid in a row are more beautiful than an arch. Yet even if they desire equality, they cannot reach it. Where men are forbidden to honour a king they honour millionaires, athletes or film-stars instead: even famous prostitutes or gangsters. For spiritual nature, like bodily nature, will be served; deny it food and it will gobble poison.
Summary
This quote suggests that humans have an inherent craving for inequality. It argues that the idea of monarchy serves as a reminder that there will always be a natural inclination for some individuals to be revered or seen as superior to others. The reaction to monarchy becomes a test, revealing people's true desires and values. Even those who desire equality are unable to attain it fully. Instead, they substitute the lack of monarchy with idolizing wealthy individuals, athletes, celebrities, or even notorious figures. The quote implies that if people are denied a proper form of hierarchy, they will turn to unhealthy or destructive substitutes for fulfillment.
By C.S. Lewis
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